Arlington, VA – 02/23/2012 – The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)® today applauds President Barack Obama, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and Congress for their leadership in pushing incentive spectrum auctions closer to a reality. Yesterday, President Obama signed into law a bill that included language authorizing the FCC to hold voluntary incentive spectrum auctions.

“President Obama has signed into law a measure that will help unleash technological innovation in America and ensure that devices, such as smartphones and tablets, can continue to be connected to wireless networks at fast, reliable speeds,” said Gary Shapiro, president and CEO, CEA. “The Administration’s continued commitment to the promotion of sound spectrum policy, such as in the recent The Economic Benefits of New Spectrum for Wireless Broadband report, is vital to innovation and our economic growth. Spectrum auctions should bring more licensed and unlicensed wireless spectrum to market, ensuring that Internet entrepreneurs can continue to thrive. CEA looks forward to working with the FCC on ensuring spectrum is available for wireless broadband and unlicensed uses.”

About CEA

The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is the preeminent trade association promoting growth in the $195 billion U.S. consumer electronics industry. More than 2,000 companies enjoy the benefits of CEA membership, including legislative advocacy, market research, technical training and education, industry promotion, standards development and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. CEA also owns and produces the International CES – The Global Stage for Innovation. All profits from CES are reinvested into CEA’s industry services. Find CEA online at www.CE.org, www.DeclareInnovation.com and through social media: .